Flights to Christchurch

As soon as your flight to Christchurch touches down at Christchurch International Airport, it becomes clear why it’s known as The Garden City.

From above, it’s easy to see just how many wide open green spaces dot the landscape, centred around Hagley Park in the middle of the city. And bisecting the scenery is the lovely Avon River, whose waters have historically provided the means to keep Christchurch blooming.

Christchurch is the largest city on New Zealand's South Island and the centre of its adventure sports industry. When you consider how much the Kiwis (as the country’s residents are called) love the outdoors, that’s really saying something.

Christchurch truly is a paradise for the sporty, and a huge range of activities are easily accessible just a short trip from downtown, from skiing and playing golf to bungee jumping, mountain biking, wind surfing, rafting and more. If you’re content to simply spectate, there are hot air balloon rides and whale watching tours too.

That being said, you don't go to Christchurch just to leave Christchurch. The city has a charm all its own, and you could have a wonderful vacation sticking to the city centre; staying in its luxury boutique hotels, sipping espresso in its wonderfully cute cafes, dining in its five-star restaurants, and enjoying the relaxing, friendly environment that the locals pride themselves on creating.

Hagley Park is a picturesque public space where art projects pop up out of nowhere and disappear just as quickly. Outdoor concerts are popular in the summer with AMI Stadium playing host to artists from around the world, and the older world exists, too, witnessed in beautiful cathedrals.

Christchurch has a well-deserved reputation as an adventure and party centre, and you don't have to look too hard to find either. But there's also a sense of refinement to the city, a cosmopolitan feel that makes it one of the best destinations in New Zealand.

What to do in Christchurch

Take a chopper flight

For the most impressive view of the city, nothing beats taking to the skies. A 20-minute ride in a whirly bird will be plenty to get your bearings and blow your mind. If you're feeling adventurous, check out the tour options that go into the mountains or over the water.

Garden City Helicopters
73 Grays Road
Yaldhurst
8042
+64 3 358 4360

Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Here you'll find an almost overwhelming array of flowers: rhododendrons, azaleas, daffodils, and so much more. Hop on the Caterpillar Garden Tour to get a quick tour or simply stroll the seemingly endless paths around the most relaxing spot right in the centre of Christchurch. Hagley Golf Course is just a bit north, for when you're done.

Christchurch Central
8013
+64 3 941 8999

Visit the Orana Wildlife Park

The city's only open-range zoo features creatures and critters of all sorts, from tall giraffes to magical white rhinos, kiwis and lions. This is exotic animal watching at its best, augmented by a knowledgeable staff who can answer any questions.

743 Mcleans Island Road
Mcleans Island
8051
+64 33 597 109

Where to eat in Christchurch

The Lotus-Heart Vegetarian Restaurant (Vegetarian)

Perhaps the most peaceful dining experience in the city can be found at this hidden gem of a restaurant operated by students of the Sri Chinmoy. There's a spirituality about the surroundings that's mirrored in the high-quality vegetarian food, made with obvious love.

363 St Asaph Street
Christchurch Central
8011
+64 3 377 2727

Smash Palace (American)

This is the best burger spot in Christchurch, serving up tasty patties made from New Zealand grass-fed beef. It's a chilled out environment too; one where you can hang out with friends and relax, or mingle and chat with in-the-know locals.

Corner Victoria Street and Bealey Avenue
Merivale
8013
+64 21 353 759

Saggio di vino (European)

There's an old-world flair to this smart restaurant that's been a fixture in Christchurch for more than two decades. In a city that's constantly refreshing and re-inventing itself, Saggio di vino has a timeless element. Having said that, the contemporary dining room is thoroughly modern.

Places to stay in Christchurch

The George Christchurch

Regularly rated as one of the best boutique hotels in the country, The George is the epitome of classy accommodation in Christchurch. The rooms are opulent and elegant, the location perfectly situated to provide easy access to downtown, and the staff are friendly and helpful.

50 Park Terrace
Christchurch Central
8013
+64 3 379 4560

The Classic Villa

You'll know you're in the right place when you arrive at The Classic thanks to the hotel's distinctive pink paint job. The former historic home has been repurposed into a five-star hotel that's cosy, quiet, and close to all of Christchurch's attractions.

Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square

For a great mid-range hotel in Christchurch, head for the Novetel Christchurch Cathedral Square. It’s perfect for families, with babysitting services available on request and leafy Hagley Park just a short distance away. As you'd expect from the name, the views of the nearby Christchurch Cathederal are striking.

52 Cathedral Square
8011
+64 3 372 2111

Plan your trip

Rent a car

Whether you’re travelling for work or pleasure, enjoy taking things at your own pace by hiring a car on emirates.com. Add car hire to an existing flight by visiting Manage your booking, or even book a hire car without booking a flight at all.

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